Description
A rare and impressive wheel-made terracotta multi-spouted lamp produced in Judea during the Roman period. The vessel features a deep central oil reservoir surrounded by fourteen evenly spaced wick nozzles, allowing numerous flames to burn simultaneously. A raised filling spout projects from the rim, while the hollow tubular stem beneath was intended to fit into a stand or lamp holder, elevating the lamp during use.
Unlike the more common single-nozzle oil lamps of the period, this sophisticated example was designed to provide exceptional illumination, making it suitable for large domestic interiors, public buildings, or communal and religious settings. The radial arrangement of the wick nozzles creates a striking sunburst-like composition that reflects both practical ingenuity and refined ceramic craftsmanship.
REFERENCE #
CR-RM-1024
CIVILIZATION
Judean, 100 – 300 A.D.
SIZE
H. 28 cm Diam 24.5 cm
CONDITION
Two nozzles were lost in antiquity. Two additional nozzles were and have been rejoined. Otherwise, the vessel is in fine condition.
PRICE
$11,500
PROVENANCE
Jerusalem private collection
Frequently Asked Questions
This lamp is unique because it features fourteen evenly spaced wick nozzles arranged radially around a deep central oil reservoir, allowing multiple flames to burn simultaneously. Most Roman period oil lamps typically have a single nozzle, making this multi-spouted design rare and sophisticated.
The hollow tubular stem was designed to fit into a stand or lamp holder, which would elevate the lamp during use. This feature helped to provide better illumination and stability when the lamp was lit.
Due to its ability to produce exceptional illumination with multiple flames, this lamp was suitable for large domestic interiors, public buildings, and communal or religious settings where bright and widespread lighting was needed.
The radial arrangement of the wick nozzles creates a sunburst-like composition, reflecting both practical ingenuity in lighting design and refined ceramic craftsmanship. This design likely enhanced the lamp's aesthetic appeal while maximizing light distribution.
The lamp is in fine condition overall, though two nozzles were lost in antiquity. Additionally, two nozzles that had been broken were rejoined during restoration, preserving the lamp's structural integrity and appearance.
The lamp measures 28 cm in height and 24.5 cm in diameter. It is priced at $11,500, reflecting its rarity, condition, and historical significance.
The lamp comes from a private collection in Jerusalem, indicating its authentic Judean origin and providing valuable historical context for collectors and scholars.
